SOUNDNESS EVALUATION

Examination of miscellaneous items, from rear forward.

Now that the horse has survived the previous categories, it is time to put a bit of pressure on the seller. A few "Hmms", while checking over something that a less cautious buyer might have overlooked, should rattle the seller enough that it might be a good idea to let him start talking price again.

Don't answer yes, no, or maybe. Don't say anything except, "Hmmmmmmm ?"

And, "Oh yes," the examination ends proving, or dis-proving, something the seller mentioned before the horse was even led out of his stall. Age

90- Colt not casterated/proud cut ( 5-10 )

A male horse not kept for breeding that has become a nuisance when around mares is usually settled down by being castrated into a gelding. If the operation is done too early in life, the colt will not develop as well, and there is a possibility that if both testicles have not dropped down properly, he could be Cut Proud into a Rig, or Ridgling.

The proud, arched, neck action of a stud, or "pretender," is unmistakable . If only one scar is present on the scrotum, and the gelding ls dlfflcult to handle when mares are present, don't buy at any prlce.

91- Patches of hair missing ( 5-10 )

The effect of Rlngworms, Warts, Hives, Mange, Lice, all are obvious, and all are curable. A glossy coat is a very good indicator of good health and care in grooming.

A horse that backs up to a fence post and rubs a bald spot at the base of his tail is suffering from internal parasites.

Check all grey or white horses for small, hard, lumps around the anus. This condition is called Melanoma. The growths are malignant. There is no cure: do not buy.

92- Poll evil ( 10 ) [ 2, 8 1 ]

Feel for an inflamed swelling between the ears. Similar to a Fistula of the Withers, it is the result of the horse hitting his head on a stable door frame, or someone trying to "get his attention" by using a club. As there is no way the animal can be turned over to let the foul-smelling pus drain, this, and an Infestula, are almost impossible to cure.

93- Ears not active ( 8-10 ) [14 ]

Talking ears indicate intelligence. Click fingers behind head and watch for reaction. No response could mean a serious illness, or deafness.

94- Dull, defective eyes ( 8-10 )

Any inflammation of the eyelid, unusual discharge, or a blue haze, or film, covering the eyeball, should be considered serious. Wave a hand in front of the eye to check for blindness. In a bright light, cup hand over, or blindfold eye for a moment, and watch reaction of pupil when removed.

A non-pigmented, or "Glass Eye," or one surrounded by a patch of white hair, is more prone to eye disorders.

95- Discharge of nose ( 8-10 )

By itself, a slight, colorless, runny nose is nothing to worry about. Any heavy, white, discharge, perhaps coupled with a cough; shallow, rapid, breathing; or any other indicator of a seneral lack of good health, could be the symptoms of Influenza, Strangles, Pneumonia, Pleurisy.